A Kingdom of Iron Oxide

[Wulthus]

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The question shook Attu to his very core. Not because his intentions towards the group were dishonest, but because of realisation that he genuinely had no answer. For the past four years, he never made a plan for his life that would exceed a couple of days: food, fuel, spare parts, shelter. Hell the man lived trough failed to take his life, but in return took away his future.

The man didn't speak. He limply leaned back again, visibly getting lost in his thoughts. After long silence, He finally met his eyes with Damen's.

-"Rest."

The man uttered a genuine smile. The façade of a cold, cynical man disappeared from Attu in that moment. Genuinity of this character is something Damien experienced for the first time.

-"What's the point of asking me where do I see myself in the next 15 to 20 years? ..."

This time, his voice wasn't as deep. He spoke quietly and his tone was less boastful.

-" ... For anyone I knew, Attu Heikkinen is dead. Bu he, like the stupid animal he is, just refuses to actually die."

Attu realised that the man he disrespectfully pointed at wasn't alone. he was now exiting the cafeteria, holding his little daughter's hand. Now he knew he was on planet Pittsburgh. He wondered, if one rumour about life in liberty turned out to be true, what about the others? What about those concerning this planet's biggest black market, quote-unquote, export item?

-"I have no future. Any speculations in this area are a waste of time... Let's make sure she has one."

He spoke, nearly mumbling, pointing at the pair with his head. Suddenly, the man straightened his posture. Attu's façade returned. His eyes squinted.

-"Suppose our circumstances change overnight and I'm no longer of use to you... What will you do?"

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